15 Order Medicine Germany Benefits Everybody Should Know How to Order Medicine in Germany: A Comprehensive Guide for Expats, Residents, and Visitors Browsing a new country's health care system can be daunting, and Germany is no exception. Whether handling a chronic condition, recovering from a seasonal cold, or requiring a fast refill, understanding how to purchase medicine in Germany is a vital life skill. Luckily, Germany boasts one of the most efficient, safe, and technically advanced pharmaceutical systems in the world. This extensive guide will walk you through whatever needed to purchase medicine in Germany-- covering regional drug stores (Apotheken), online choices, prescription guidelines, and useful suggestions. Comprehending the German Pharmacy System (Apotheke) Before purchasing medicine, it helps to comprehend how the system works. In Germany, medications are strictly regulated and divided into categories based on how they can be acquired. Try to find the huge red "A" indication-- this is the universal sign of a German Apotheke (pharmacy). Kinds Of Medication Classifications Category German Term Description How to Order Non-prescription (OTC) Freiverkäufliche Arzneimittel Moderate remedies (e.g., herbal teas, standard throat lozenges). Grocery stores, pharmacies (dm, Rossmann), or pharmacies. Pharmacy-Only Apothekenpflichtige Arzneimittel Requirement non-prescription medications (e.g., Ibuprofen, Aspirin). Exclusively through physical or online drug stores.